CT of the spine - a diagnostic examination, which is widely used in neurological and neurosurgical practice.It allows maximum accuracy to establish the degree of damage of cartilage and bone structures, as well as the spinal cord.

study is as follows: the patient is placed on a special movable couch on his back and asked to maintain immobility.The bed is moved inside the tunnel and in the process of scanning makes smooth motion, at the same time around the patient rotates the scanner.As soon as the first shots, the couch will be prepared to extend it from the device and the examinee injected contrast agent.

If the drug appears allergy in the form of itching, rash, difficulty breathing, or redness, you must inform the specialist conducting the examination.After injection of contrast agent, the patient is pushed back to the couch in a tunnel apparatus and continue scanning.Pictures obtained slices displayed on the mon

itor.After the procedure, the doctor checks to see whether any of the subject dizziness or nausea after a contrasting solution.After the session, the patient can safely go back to normal life.

When he appointed?

Tomography lumbar spine is necessary to pass the following indications:

Germination tumor formations of adjacent organs and tissues in the spine.

Postoperative monitoring of the recovery of the patient.

Fractures of the vertebrae in the lumbar region or sacrum.

Anomalies of vertebrae (acquired or congenital).

Benign and malignant tumors of the spine.

Bleeding in the spinal cord.

Unstable sacral vertebrae and the lumbar.

spondylitis.

Osteoporosis.

Stenosis (narrowing) of the spinal canal.

CT cervical spine revealed diseases and injuries of the following organs and systems:

Contraindications

Contraindications for CT of the spine with contrast is the presence of allergy to seafood or iodine, severe claustrophobia, psychiatric disorders, diabetes, malignancies of the blood system, and the presence of foreign bodies (implants, prostheses) of metal or gypsum in the study area.Besides diagnosis contraindicated for people weighing more than 130 kg, pregnant and lactating women, as well as those who suffer from severe pain that interferes keep still during the procedure.

How to prepare?

For more reliable results CT of the lumbar spine, the day before the scheduled study of the menu is recommended to exclude products that enhance gas formation.On the eve of inspection is required to put a cleansing enema.This is best done in the evening.CT of the lumbar performed with a full bladder.In the study of the lumbar women in the vagina is introduced cotton swab - dry or soaked in the contrast medium.

When imaging of the cervical spine preparation is required only in the case of the contrast.The patient should refrain from the use of any liquid for an hour before the study, and the meal - for six hours before the diagnosis.When imaging the thoracic recommendations are the same.